Get Paid to Write for Beginners: The Ultimate 2025 Guide to Freelance Writing
Monika Ivanauskaite
9 days ago
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Imagine turning your passion for writing into a flexible, location-independent way to earn more money. Whether you dream of crafting compelling blog posts, writing short stories, or sharing true stories with a large audience, freelance writing offers endless opportunities to get paid.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best platforms, practical tips, and strategies to help you get paid to write online. From beginners looking to kickstart their journey to experienced writers aiming to diversify their income streams, there’s something for everyone.
Why Freelance Writing is a Great Way to Earn Money
Freelance writing is more than just a job — it also can be a career path that offer endless possibilities. Here’s why freelance writing stands out as a fantastic way to earn:
Flexibility: One of the biggest perks of freelance writing is the flexibility. You can work from wherever you feel most inspired — your home office, a bustling café, or a beach halfway around the world. You get to set your own schedule, choosing the hours and places that work best for you.
Anyone can start: You don't need to have a lot of experience to start writing. And there’s always a a market for different topics, like articles related to fishing, gaming, travel, and other topics.
Scale your earnings: Freelance writing lets you control your income based on how much you want to work. You can take on a mix of jobs—blog posts, website content, technical writing, microtasking gigs, or even ghostwriting for others. The more you diversify, the more opportunities you’ll find to grow your earnings.
Quick profit potential: Unlike traditional jobs that might take weeks or months to see a paycheck, freelance writing is one of those jobs that can pay off fast. A single well-written blog post or a story can open doors to a wide audience and a steady stream of income.
In fact, according to All Things Freelance Writing, many writers have scaled their earnings to $1,000 or more per month within their first year, proving that getting paid to write is a worthwhile pursuit.
Best Places to Get Paid to Write Online
To start your freelance writing journey, you need to find sites that will help you get paid to write articles. Each platform offers unique benefits tailored to different writing styles, niches, and skill levels.
Below are five trusted platforms to help you generate income while growing your portfolio and diversifying your income streams. All of the mentioned platforms provide diverse opportunities for freelancers to start earning, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced professional.
With clear pay structures and a range of content types, you can explore these platforms to find the best fit for your skills and financial goals.
1. Medium
Medium is a great site to share thoughts, experiences, and expertise with an audience while monetizing your skills. It caters to various types of content, including personal stories, thought-provoking essays, and in-depth articles. Writers earn through the Medium Partner Program, which pays based on how long the audience engage with your content.
Earnings vary widely. Some articles generate a few dollars, while highly popular pieces can bring in hundreds per month, as many users have reported. The key is consistently publishing content that attracts and retains readers.
To get started, create a free Medium account, publish high-quality writing, and join the Partner Program to begin earning.
Success on Medium often comes from focusing on trending topics or unique perspectives and promoting your work to grow your audience.
2. Substack
Substack is another good website for copywriters who want to monetize long-form content and build direct connections with their readers. Substack allows you to create subscription-based newsletters on virtually any topic, from niche commentary to in-depth industry insights. Writers set their own subscription rates and get paid directly from subscribers, giving them full control over their income.
Writers keep 90% of subscription revenue, minus a small platform fee. Subscription rates typically range from $5 to $15 per month, with the potential for higher earnings based on your audience size.
To start, sign up, create your newsletter to print stories, and focus on a specific niche.
Success on Substack depends on publishing consistently and engaging with your audience through quality content. This platform is ideal for writers who enjoy independence and have expertise in specific fields.
3. Contena
Contena is a great platform designed for freelance writers seeking high-paying assignments. It connects writers with opportunities in blogging, ghostwriting, technical writing, and more. Contena stands out for offering competitive pay rates, making it a top choice for experienced writers aiming to maximize their income.
Many jobs listed on this site offer $100 to $500 per article or project, payment scale depending on the client and the complexity of the assignment.
To access Contena’s exclusive job board, you need to apply for membership, which also includes access to training resources and personalized coaching.
This platform is perfect for writers looking to secure high-paying, long-term freelance opportunities.
4. Vocal Media
Vocal Media is a user-friendly platform for writers to share essays and niche articles on various topics like healthy living, vibrant life, and creative writing. Writers get paid based on the number of reads their articles receive, with additional bonuses for high-performing pieces.
Writers earn $3.80 per 1,000 reads, and Vocal+ members earn higher rates. Bonus payments for popular articles can range from $20 to $500.
To get started, sign up for free or upgrade to Vocal+ for more benefits. Write and publish articles, then share your work across social media to increase engagement.
This platform is especially appealing to creative writers and storytellers who want to turn their passion into income.
5. Textbroker
Textbroker connects writers with businesses that need SEO-friendly content, such as blog posts, product descriptions, and web copy. The platform uses a tiered pay system, rewarding writers with higher rates as their quality rating improves.
Entry-level writers earn around $0.007 per word, while top-tier copywriters can earn up to $0.05 per word. This translates to $7–$50 for a 1,000-word article, depending on your quality tier.
To start, register on Textbroker, submit a writing sample to determine your quality level, and begin selecting assignments from their job board.
Textbroker is a great starting point for beginners looking to gain experience while earning and improving their skills.
Types of Writing Jobs You Can Pursue
Once you've explored the best platforms to get paid for your work, it's time to consider the types of writing jobs you can pursue to match your skills and interests while maximizing your income.
Below are some of the most popular types of writing jobs you can pursue.
Blogging and Content Writing
Blogging and content writing are among the most accessible and in-demand freelance writing jobs. Businesses and websites are constantly looking for freelancers to create engaging blog posts and SEO-optimized articles that attract and engage readers.
To start with blogging and content writing:
Create a profile on platforms like Medium or Vocal Media to publish your content and build a portfolio.
Use job boards like Contena or ProBlogger to find blogging opportunities.
Pitch directly to websites that accept contributions, such as niche blogs or industry-specific sites.
Focus on trending topics and evergreen content to attract long-term readership.
Tip: Create an author page on your blog or other platforms to showcase your work, highlight your expertise, and make it easy for potential clients to contact you.
Ghostwriting
Ghostwriting involves writing articles, books, or other content for clients who take the credit. It’s a lucrative niche, especially for copywriters who can adapt to different tones and styles. Ghostwriting jobs often pay higher rates since you’re giving up authorship rights.
To start with ghostwriting:
Join platforms like Textbroker to find beginner ghostwriting gigs.
Look for high-paying ghostwriting jobs on Contena or similar premium job boards.
Network with authors, bloggers, or businesses in need of ghostwriters through LinkedIn.
Build a portfolio showcasing your ability to write in various styles and tones.
Creative Writing
If you have a passion for storytelling, creative writing can be a rewarding niche. From fictional articles to poetry and even personal essays, many platforms pay freelance writers for compelling and original creative content.
To start with creative writing:
Share your work on Vocal Media or Substack, where you can reach readers directly.
Submit articles and essays to niche magazines or online publications accept freelance submissions.
Explore contests and writing competitions, which often include cash prizes and publishing opportunities.
Create a personal blog or social media account to showcase your unique writing style.
Copywriting for Businesses
Copywriting focuses on creating persuasive and engaging content to promote products or services. This includes website copy, email campaigns, and advertising scripts. It’s a high-demand field with excellent earning potential for skilled copywriters.
To start with copywriting for businesses:
Use platforms like Contena or Upwork to find copywriting jobs tailored to beginners.
Take an online course in copywriting to improve your skills and stand out to clients.
Reach out to small businesses or startups directly, offering to create promotional materials.
Focus on learning SEO and marketing strategies to boost the effectiveness of your copy.
Technical Writing
Technical writing involves creating manuals, instructional guides, and other documentation that explains complex concepts in a clear and concise way. It’s ideal for writers with expertise in fields like software development, engineering, or healthcare.
To start with technical writing:
Identify industries where you have expertise and search for technical writing opportunities on specialized job boards.
Craft writing samples that showcase your ability to break down complex technical concepts into clear, concise explanations while adhering to standard requirements such as style guidelines and word count.
Look for entry-level gigs on platforms like Textbroker or LinkedIn.
Join online forums or communities for technical writers to network and learn about new opportunities.
Small tasks, real rewards
Earn money online by completing microtasks anytime and anywhere.
How to Start Your Freelance Writing Career
Starting a career in freelance writing can feel overwhelming, but with the right steps, you can build a successful and sustainable path. Here are some tips to get started:
Build a professional portfolio: Create a portfolio showcasing your best work. Highlight your versatility and expertise to attract clients.
Identify your niche: Choose a specific area of focus, like creative writing, technical writing, or SEO content, to stand out in the competitive market.
Set realistic goals: Start small by balancing freelance writing with other commitments. Gradually scale your workload and income as you gain experience and build a client base.
Use tools to boost productivity: Invest in tools like Grammarly for editing or AI-generated content software for efficiency, but ensure the final product reflects your unique voice.
Network with other writers: Join online platforms or communities for copywriters to exchange advice, find job leads, and build connections. Networking can also help you pitch story ideas to editors or websites that accept submissions.
Pro tip: Don’t rely solely on one type of writing. Explore other quick and easy earning opportunities on JumpTask. Explore JumpTask microtasks that provide flexible ways to supplement your earnings while you grow your freelance career.
Real Stories from Successful Freelance Writers
Freelance writing has empowered many creators to turn their skills into a steady income in the past few years. With the right approach and tools, persistence, and creativity, writers have unlocked impressive earning potential across various niches. Here are two inspiring examples of how writers are thriving in the industry:
Wanda Njimi, a teen copywriter, shares how she turned her writing skills into a lucrative side hustle. By leveraging platforms like Upwork and honing her skills with online resources, she earns between $860 to $2,280 per month. Wanda highlights how even beginners can get paid to write by mastering copywriting basics and building a portfolio. Her story is a testament to how quickly a good writer can generate income with determination and the right tools.
Another writer reports earning between $150 to $450 per assignment. By offering high-quality content and utilizing tools like AI to streamline tasks, they’ve been able to secure consistent writing gigs. This example shows how targeting niches like B2B writing and submitting articles with clear submission guidelines can significantly boost earnings.
Key takeways
Freelance writing is more than a career — it’s a way of life, offering flexibility and the chance to make money writing from anywhere in the world.
Your words are your currency: Build a portfolio that reflects your range, find your niche, and carve out a space in the ever-growing world of freelancers.
The right platforms can open doors — Medium, Substack, and Vocal Media invite you to get paid to write articles, share experience, and connect with readers, all while earning competitive pay.
Diversification is your safety net: Writing projects can come and go, so consider exploring multiple niches or complementing your work with microtasking to ensure steady earnings.
Consistency and craft are your best allies: To succeed, create high-quality articles that speaks to the audience, and invest time in mastering skills like SEO to stand out in a crowded market.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are freelance writing jobs legitimate?
Yes, freelance writing jobs are legitimate and widely available. Many businesses, online platforms, and publications pay freelance writers to create content, ranging from blog posts to fictional essays. Always research potential clients or platforms to ensure they are trustworthy.
Do I need a degree to write articles for money?
No, you don’t need a degree to make money from writing. While a degree in English, journalism, or a related field can help, many successful content writers have built careers based on skill, experience, and a strong portfolio.
What are the best beginner-friendly writing jobs?
Beginner-friendly writing jobs include blogging, guest posts, and short articles. Platforms like JumpTask, Textbroker and Vocal Media are great starting points for new copywriters to gain experience and build confidence.
Can I earn a full-time income from freelance writing?
Yes, many freelance authors earn a full-time income by diversifying their work, such as writing articles, copywriting, and technical writing. Success depends on consistency, networking, and honing your craft to command competitive rates.
How do I set my rates as a new writer?
As a new writer, start by researching market rates for your niche and experience level. You might charge per word, per article, or hourly. As your portfolio grows and you gain expertise, gradually increase your rates to reflect the value you provide.
Monika Ivanauskaite
Content manager
The mind behind JumpTask updates is also a nature enthusiast, balancing announcements with hikes and capturing serene moments. Dive into the blog for a scenic journey through JumpTask's ever-evolving landscape.